Exotic beasts enliven Conservation Ball

The Friends of Conservation's annual fundraiser Oct. 18 at the Palmer House Hilton

The Friends of Conservation's annual fundraiser Oct. 18 at the Palmer House Hilton

By Candace Jordan, Special to Tribune Newspapers

A ring-tailed lemur from Madagascar, a baby white Bengal tiger and a zebra named Zeke were the stars of the Conservation Ball, The Friends of Conservation's annual fundraiser Oct. 18 at the Palmer House Hilton.

Putting a focus on conservation efforts in Africa, the FOC presented these wildlife ambassadors, as well as two gray kangaroos and an African spurred tortoise, to a black-tie-clad crowd of 260 guests, who also enjoyed being photographed with the animals.

During the reception, supporters perused an extensive silent auction that included handmade items from the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. The event raised more than $320,000 for the FOC's efforts in the reserve's ecosystem.

"With core support from Abercrombie & Kent Philanthropy, the FOC has made a significant positive impact in the region, actively supporting the communities in areas of education, wildlife monitoring, habitat protection and sustainability," said Reute Butler, FOC president and ball chairwoman. "What we're doing is empowering their way of life."

Butler surprised her mother, FOC founder and International Chairwoman Jorie Butler Kent, with a Bamara lion sculpture donated by Lalique for being the "guiding light of FOC." She presented Co-chairman Paul Iacono with colorful necklaces made by members of the Masai Mara tribe to thank him for his support.

Butler also spoke about the FOC's efforts to help eliminate poaching and her wish for the region: "We hope to leave it richer than the way we found it."

Freelance writer Candace Jordan is involved with many local organizations, including some whose events she covers.

A ring-tailed lemur from Madagascar, a baby white Bengal tiger and a zebra named Zeke were the stars of the Conservation Ball, The Friends of Conservation's annual fundraiser Oct. 18 at the Palmer House Hilton. Putting a focus on conservation efforts in Africa, the FOC presented these...

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